By David Harrison

SWPL PREMIER WEST

Launceston 0 Wendron United 1

AFTER the frantic game against Dobwalls less than 48 hours earlier, calm returned to Pennygillam on Saturday against top three hopefuls Wendron.

Launceston manager Neil Price continued his rotation policy as he looked for fresh legs with the Clarets entering the final week of the season.

Regular starters Denham Guild and skipper Mike Steele took places on the bench alongside Dan Clifton and Jake Ham. With George Beardsmore and Andy Watkins both out injured, Price handed midfield starts to Ben Harrison, Liam Raglan and Josh Harris.

Wendron are enjoying another fine season and the familiar figures of defender Russell May and 27-goal striker Ryan Reeve were both prominent.

Harrison made the first break for the Clarets but it was the visitors who took the lead after 21 minutes when Rio Watson volleyed sharply past Lewis Slade.

Launceston’s best chance of the first half fell to Reece Hendrickson but he failed to make significant contact with a firm Mark Wilson cross.

Manager Price introduced Steele, Ham and Guild after the break, giving the side greater presence in midfield, but chances remained at a premium against a well-organised Wendron back line who have conceded only six goals in their last eight league games.

Defensively Launceston were excellent, with the back line of Wilson, Jago, Wall and Woodgate, in front of keeper Slade, limiting the visitors to a series of half-chances, but the attack was unable to seriously trouble Wendron keeper Zach Telling.

A uneventful game ended with a tired-looking Launceston failing to score at home for the first time since October.

LAUNCESTON: Lewis Slade; Mark Wilson, Jude Jago (capt), Archie Wall, Declan Woodgate; Reece Hendrickson; Ben Harrison, Liam Raglan, Jaden Wood, Josh Harris; Lewis Young. Subs: Denham Guild, Dan Clifton, Mike Steele, Jake Ham.

Launceston man of the match: Declan Woodgate.